Preschoolers

Do you remember the first time you started a new book and encountered a character who looked just like you? It can be a magical experience to read about someone who has hair or eyes or freckles like yours going on wonderful, thrilling adventures. For many of us, it’s an experience that’s easy to take for granted. But unfortunately, it’s an experience that not everyone gets to have.

Fortunately, literature for children and young adults has made great strides in diversifying the stories that are told, but we have a long way to go until everyone’s experiences and identities are reflected in the books available to them. Until we get there, check out these books: they might show you someone who looks just like you, or someone you’ve never met before. [Read more…] about Diverse Books: Seeing Yourself in Literature

Looking for a compromise between the Frozen soundtrack and NPR (or Naptime Public Radio as the kids call it these days*)? Well look no further.

With more ways to access podcasts than ever before (I’m looking at you Pandora), engaging children in oral storytelling is easy-peasy lemon-squeezy these days. Whether your podcast agenda is audio learning, mindful moments, or just plain entertainment, we have a suggestion for you.

Hoopla is a digital service that brings to your devices an enormous selection of music, movies, audiobooks, comics, and television shows. No placing holds, no waiting for delivery, no disappointed kids – you can borrow instantly up to 10 items per month with your library card.

The selections are vast – so I am going to focus on the fun of choosing materials for children of all ages. Have you ever been trapped in a car with a grumpy toddler on a long road trip? Waited for a long time in the doctor’s office waiting room? Here are some fun ways to make that time fly. [Read more…] about Hoopla for Kids

We’re excited to announce our Staff Picks for 2018! For the past four years, we’ve asked staff to recommend their favorite books published in the calendar year. Here are the children’s books they loved most in 2018. Staff Picks for young adults and adults will be published over the next week.

If you are looking for more suggestions for children’s books, stop into your local branch and ask for our Holiday bookmarks that list titles perfect for gifting to younger book lovers.